Base Reinforcement and Handle for Luggage

ABSTRACT

An article of luggage can include a housing portion and a reinforcement element disposed adjacent an interior surface of the housing portion. The reinforcement element can include a plurality of interconnecting ribs. The luggage system can include a handle partially disposed adjacent an exterior surface of the housing portion, which handle can at least partially extend through a handle opening in the housing portion and into the reinforcement element.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/595,340 filed on Oct. 7, 2019, entitled “Luggage with Pocket,” and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/845,199 filed on May 8, 2019, entitled “Base Reinforcement and Handle for Luggage,” each of which are owned by the assignee of the instant application and the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to luggage and related systems and methods for providing storage and carrying capacity for personal effects and the like during transit, and specifically to systems and methods for the structural integrity and/or manipulation of luggage during transport and/or storage.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There is a constant need in the art to improve the structural integrity of articles of luggage. Articles of luggage known in the art can suffer from a lack of structural integrity that can lead to deformation or failure of the luggage during transit or storage. Moreover, luggage that is inadequately reinforced can be not only more difficult to transport but can also deform and sometimes break by virtue of not being adequately reinforced. Deformation or failure of luggage housing portions can be increased near edges of the housing portions, for example on an edge of the housing portion adjacent to an opening of the housing portion. There is also a need in the art to improve the structural integrity of articles of luggage without substantially increasing, for example, their weight, bulk, or profile, any or all of which can undesirably make the luggage more difficult for a user to manipulate or transport, including due to, for example, airline size or weight limitations.

Luggage known in the art can also suffer from increased undesirable deformation when it is moved about during the transit or storage processes. Handles or other provided devices by which a user can pick up or otherwise manipulate an article of luggage can impart forces on the body of an article of luggage when the luggage is moved with that handle or other device. In some embodiments, forces exerted on the luggage body by a user pulling on the handle can propagate through the body of the luggage such that the luggage becomes damaged or unintentionally opens, exposing articles placed inside.

Moreover, the art is in search of improved apparatuses and methods for transporting and storing luggage that overcome the limitations of currently-known luggage. Handles or other pulling or pushing devices for luggage frequently add undesirable weight, unsightly external features, and can introduce additional failure points to the luggage.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In some aspects, there is an article of luggage. The article of luggage can include a housing portion, a reinforcement element disposed adjacent an interior surface of the housing portion, and a handle partially disposed adjacent an exterior surface of the housing portion. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the handle can extend through at least a handle opening provided in the housing portion and into the reinforcement element.

In some embodiments, the article of luggage can include one or more wheel wells formed in the housing portion. The wheel wells can be configured to accommodate one or more wheel assemblies. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can extend over at least a portion of an interior surface of the one or more wheel wells. In some embodiments, edges of the reinforcement element can abut at least a portion of an interior surface of the one or more wheel wells.

In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can include a plurality of interconnecting ribs. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can include a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the handle. The cavity can be formed among the plurality of interconnecting ribs. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can include one or more ribs that are parallel or substantially parallel to one another. In some embodiments, the interconnecting ribs of the reinforcement element can be configured in a honeycomb pattern. In some embodiments, the interconnecting ribs of the reinforcement element can intersect or bisect.

The reinforcement element can include a first reinforcement region and a second reinforcement region. In some embodiments, the first reinforcement region can be configured to exhibit increased rigidity compared to the second reinforcement region, or vice versa. In some embodiments, the first reinforcement region can be at least partially located adjacent an open edge of the housing portion. In some embodiments, a reinforcement region with increased rigidity can be located adjacent an open edge of the housing portion. In some embodiments, there can be more than two reinforcement regions, where each reinforcement region can be configured to impart a different degree of rigidity and/or reinforcement to a given region of the article of luggage which is adjacent or near that reinforcement region. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can be a base reinforcement. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can be disposed in the top, sides, front, or back of the article of luggage or housing portion.

In some embodiments, the handle can include an opening defining a grab region that is configured to permit a user's fingers to grab and exert a force on the article of luggage. In some embodiments, the handle can include an angled surface. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can define an interior surface of the grab region.

In some aspects, there is an article of luggage. The article of luggage can include a housing portion and a reinforcement element disposed on an interior bottom surface of the housing portion. The reinforcement element can include a plurality of interconnecting ribs. In some embodiments, all or substantially all or at least a portion of the plurality of interconnecting ribs can be arranged in a honeycomb pattern. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can include a first reinforcement region and a second reinforcement region, wherein the first reinforcement region is configured to exhibit increased rigidity compared to the second reinforcement region. In some embodiments, the first reinforcement region can be at least partially located adjacent an open edge of the housing portion.

In some embodiments the article of luggage can include one or more wheel wells formed in the housing portion. The wheel wells can be configured to accommodate one or more wheel assemblies. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can extend over at least a portion of an interior surface of the one or more wheel wells. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can abut at least a portion of an interior surface of the one or more wheel wells.

The article of luggage can include a handle disposed at least partially on or adjacent to an exterior surface of the housing portion. A portion of the handle can extend through at least a handle opening provided in the housing portion and into the reinforcement element. In some embodiments, a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the handle can be formed among the plurality of interconnecting ribs. In some embodiments, an opening can be formed among the plurality of interconnecting ribs which can be configured to receive at least a portion of the handle. In some embodiments, the handle can include an opening. A perimeter of the opening can define a grab region configured to permit a user's fingers to grab and pull the article of luggage using the handle. In some embodiments, the handle can include an angled surface. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can define an interior surface of the grab region. In some embodiments, the grab region can be defined by an opening in the reinforcement element, rather than the handle. In some embodiments, a handle can be secured to the housing portion by one or more fasteners passing through at least the housing portion. In some embodiments, a handle can be secured to the housing portion by one or more fasteners passing through the reinforcement element and/or the housing portion.

The article of luggage can include one or more wheel wells formed in the housing portion. The wheel wells can be capable of accommodating one or more spinner wheel assemblies. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can extend over the interior surface of the one or more wheel wells. In some embodiments, one or more wheel assemblies can be secured to the housing portion by one or more fasteners passing through at least the reinforcement element. In some embodiments, the handle can be secured to the housing which extends across the interior surface of the one or more wheel wells by one or more fasteners passing through the reinforcement element.

In some embodiments, the article of luggage can include a telescopic-handle partially disposed along an exterior top side of the housing portion. The handle can be disposed along an exterior side of the housing portion that is 90 degrees from the exterior top side of the housing portion, e.g., the telescopic-handle can be on a top side of the article of luggage while the handle can be on a left, right, front, or back side of the article of luggage. In some embodiments, the handle can be disposed along an exterior side of the housing portion that is opposite the exterior top side of the housing portion, e.g., the telescopic-handle can be on a top side of the article of luggage while the handle can be on a bottom side of the article of luggage. References to direction refer to the direction in the orientation the various components described herein throughout, are intended for ease in understanding the description only, and should not be understood as limiting in any manner.

In some aspects there is an article of luggage with a housing portion and a reinforcement element. The reinforcement element can be disposed on an interior bottom surface of the housing portion. The reinforcement element can include a first rib and a second rib that interconnect. In some embodiments, the interconnecting first rib and the second rib can intersect. In some embodiments, the interconnecting first rib can bisect the second rib, or vice versa. In some embodiments, the interconnecting first rib and the second rib can form a portion of a honeycomb rib pattern. The point where the interconnecting first rib and the second rib intersect can be the point of intersection of the sides of a honeycomb rib pattern. In some embodiments, there can be a plurality of ribs. In some embodiments, the first rib and the second rib can cross over one another. In some embodiments, the first rib and the second rib can be curved. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can include at least a first rib and a second rib wherein the first rib and the second rib interconnect. In some embodiments, the first rib and the second rib can interconnect at at least one point or location. In some embodiments, the first rib and the second rib can interconnect at multiple points or locations.

In some embodiments, the article of luggage can include a handle disposed at least partially on an exterior surface of the housing portion. A portion of the handle can extend through the housing. In some embodiments, a portion of the handle can extend through an opening in the housing and into the reinforcement element. In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can include a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the handle. In some embodiments, the first rib and the second rib can extend over the cavity. In some embodiments, the first rib and the second rib can define edges of the cavity.

In some aspects there is a piece of luggage with a left luggage shell and a right luggage shell. The piece of luggage can include a base reinforcement disposed on an interior bottom surface of the left luggage shell. In some embodiments, the piece of luggage can include a base reinforcement disposed on an interior bottom surface of the right luggage shell. In some embodiments, the piece of luggage can include a base reinforcement disposed on an interior bottom surface of both luggage shells. The piece of luggage can include a base reinforcement that is configured to receive one or more handles accessible from the exterior of the left luggage shell and/or the right luggage shell.

In some aspects there is a luggage system including a front luggage portion and a rear luggage portion. The luggage system can include a base reinforcement disposed on an interior bottom surface of the rear luggage portion and a handle partially disposed on the exterior of the rear luggage portion. In some embodiments, a portion of the handle can extend through at least a handle opening provided in the housing portion. In some embodiments, a portion of the handle can extend into the base reinforcement.

In some embodiments, the reinforcement element can be configured to increase the structural integrity or rigidity of a housing portion of an article of luggage. In some embodiments, the reinforcement characteristics can be increased near an open edge of the housing portion, as compared with other surfaces of the housing portion. In some embodiments, reinforcement is only provided adjacent one or more edges of the housing portions.

In some aspects, an article of luggage can be provided with a base reinforcement feature that can prevent the article of luggage from deforming undesirably. The base reinforcement can be installed on a bottom wall of an article of luggage to prevent the luggage from deforming, e.g., when it is being wheeled to a destination by a user, which prevents the suitcase base from scraping on the ground during transport. The base reinforcement can include a plurality of ribs, or another reinforcement pattern such as honeycomb, for strengthening reinforcement and minimizing deformation. In some embodiments, the base reinforcement can be integrally formed with the body of an article of luggage, e.g., by forming a plurality of ribs during the forming of a plastic or metal luggage shell. In some embodiments, the base reinforcement can be installed within soft-side or hard-shell luggage.

In some aspects, an article of luggage can be provided with a handle on the external bottom of the article of luggage. The handle can facilitate a user accessing the article of luggage when top or side handles are otherwise blocked from access, e.g., where the luggage is stored “top-in” in, e.g., an airplane carry-on luggage compartment, the trunk of a car or the like. The profile of the handle beyond the outside of the article of luggage itself can be such that the possibility of the handle dragging against the ground or being caught or snagged by or against uneven surfaces is minimized. In some embodiments, a portion of the handle can be recessed within the body of the article of luggage itself. In some embodiments, the entirety of the handle can be recessed within the body of the article of luggage itself. A portion of the handle can be recessed within the body of the luggage in various ways. In some embodiments, a hole or opening can be formed in the luggage shell, through which a portion of a handle assembly can pass, such that it is disposed both inside and outside the body of the luggage. In some embodiments, the shell can be molded to have a concave depression, such that there is no opening or hole in the shell, but at least a portion of the handle assembly is still recessed beneath the external surface of the luggage shell.

In some aspects, a handle and base reinforcement can be implemented together on an article of luggage. In some embodiments, the handle can engage with the base reinforcement in fastening to the article of luggage. In some embodiments, an article of luggage can include both a handle and a base reinforcement that are separate from one another and do not engage. A handle can also be employed on its own, without the use of a base reinforcement, and vice versa.

The base reinforcement and/or handle systems as described herein can be implemented in a variety of configurations of luggage systems. Exemplary luggage systems with which the base reinforcement and/or handle systems described below can be implemented are described in detail in at least Applicant's prior U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/935,335, filed on Nov. 6, 2015 and titled “Hard-Shell Luggage Systems” and application Ser. No. 15/684,077, filed on Aug. 23, 2017 and titled “Luggage System Employing a Telescopically-Extendable Handle and Battery Power Supply Assembly Equipped with a Semi-Automatic Battery Power Module Ejection Mechanism.” In some embodiments, the base reinforcement and handle systems can be implemented with articles of luggage other than those of Applicant's prior applications listed above. Unless otherwise stated herein, aspects or features of the various example embodiments described below can be combined with one another.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an article of luggage according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 depicts a front view of an article of luggage according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 depicts a right side view of an article of luggage according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 depicts a left side view of an article of luggage according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 depicts a back view of an article of luggage according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 depicts a top view of an article of luggage according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 depicts a bottom view of an article of luggage according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 depicts an interior perspective view of a back half of an article of luggage including a reinforcement element according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 depicts an interior perspective view of a back half of an article of luggage according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 depicts a partial exploded interior perspective view of a back half of an article of luggage according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 depicts a partial exploded interior perspective view of a front half of an article of luggage according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 depicts an exploded perspective view of a reinforcement element, handle, and wheel assemblies of an article of luggage according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 depicts an exploded perspective view of a reinforcement element, handle, and wheel assemblies of an article of luggage according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 depicts a perspective view of a reinforcement element according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14A depicts a perspective view of a reinforcement element according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 depicts a front view of a reinforcement element according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 depicts a right side view of a reinforcement element according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17 depicts a left side view of a reinforcement element according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 18 depicts a bottom view of a reinforcement element according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19 depicts a top view of a reinforcement element according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 20 depicts a back view of a reinforcement element according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 21 depicts a perspective view of a handle according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 22 depicts a front side view of a handle according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 23 depicts a right side view of a handle according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 depicts a left side view of a handle according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25 depicts a top view of a handle according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 26 depicts a bottom view of a handle according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 27 depicts a back view of a handle according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 28 depicts a bottom perspective view of a reinforcement element according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29 depicts a front perspective view of a reinforcement element according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIGS. 1-7 depict various external views of an article of luggage 100 according to one embodiment of the invention. Exemplary article of luggage 100 is depicted as hard-shell luggage, but the devices and systems described herein can also be implemented with soft-side luggage, or luggage incorporating a mixture of soft- and hard-sided components. Article of luggage 100 includes back side shell 110 and front side shell 120. References to direction refer to the direction in the orientation the various components described herein are shown in the Figures, are intended for ease in understanding the description only, and should not be understood as limiting in any manner.

Back side shell 110 and front side shell 120 can be connected by a hinge or other like mechanism along one side, e.g., along the left side shown in FIG. 4. Back side shell 110 and front side shell 120 can also include a zipper or other like closure mechanism that extends around at least three sides of the article of luggage for opening and closing the luggage. In some embodiments, back side shell 110 and front side shell 120 can be joined by alternative closure mechanisms, such as one or more buckles or a frame closure mechanism.

Article of luggage 100 can also include one or more external handles that can be attached to the article of luggage, e.g., handle 130 which is attached at handle attachment points 130A and 130B along the top of the article of luggage and/or external handle 140 which is attached at handle attachment points 140A, and 140B along the right side of the article of luggage. Typically, handles attached to the various handle attachment points extend beyond the external surface of the article of luggage, raised above the external surface such that they can be grabbed and held by a user to carry or move the luggage. In some embodiments, back side shell 110 and front side shell 120 can be formed from a polycarbonate material, and can include a metal frame made from, e.g., aluminum or magnesium, that supports the external handle assembly. In some embodiments, the frame that supports the external assembly can be formed from a plastic material, e.g. a polycarbonate or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material. In some embodiments, back side shell 110 and front side shell 120 can be formed from metal or a fabric material, each incorporating either a metal or plastic frame.

Article of luggage 100 can also include one or more wheel assemblies 150A-150D, each including one or more wheels. Article of luggage can include a telescopic-handle assembly 160. In some embodiments, a telescopic-handle assembly can include a removable battery. In some embodiments, a telescopic-handle assembly disposed within the handle assembly can include hardware for permitting semi-automatic ejection of a removable battery, including as described in Applicant's prior U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/684,077, filed on Aug. 23, 2017 and titled “Luggage System Employing a Telescopically-Extendable Handle and Battery Power Supply Assembly Equipped with a Semi-Automatic Battery Power Module Ejection Mechanism.” While telescopic-handle assembly 160 is depicted in back side shell 110, telescopic-handle assembly 160 can be disposed in front side shell 120. In some embodiments telescopic-handle assembly 160 and a removable battery assembly can each be disposed in different shells, e.g., telescopic-handle assembly 160 in back side shell 110 and a removable battery assembly in front side shell 120, or vice-versa.

FIG. 7 depicts handle 170 disposed on the bottom of article of luggage 100. In the illustrated embodiment, handle 170 is attached to back side shell 110, but handle 170 can also be attached to front side shell 120. In some embodiments, multiple handles are provided, e.g. one in each of back side shell 110 and front side shell 120 or more than one handle on the same side. The center of handle 170 can be disposed at approximately the midpoint of the width of back side shell 110 between the left and right sides of article of luggage 100. Where more than one handle is provided on the same side or in the same shell, the handles can be distributed across that side, for example evenly distributed or distributed such that each handle can be easily accessed by a user when article of luggage 100 is stored during transit or storage. The use of multiple handles can facilitate access by a user, e.g., when article of luggage 100 is blocked by obstructions such as other articles of luggage. In some embodiments, handle 170 can be disposed on a side or top of article of luggage 100. In this manner, advantages of handle 170 including its low profile and structural advantages can be realized at other positions along the exterior surface of article of luggage 100.

Reinforcement element 180 can be disposed within back side shell 110, as depicted in FIG. 8. Reinforcement element 180 can be attached to a bottom inside surface of back side shell 110 by fasteners 182 and 184. In some embodiments, fasteners 182 and 184 can pass through a hole or holes, 182A and 184B, in back side shell 110 and engage with handle 170, to press reinforcement element 180 and handle 170 together, sandwiching back side shell 110 between the two. In some embodiments, reinforcement element 180 is attached to the shell by adhesive, studs, snaps, or screws, and/or can be press-fit to be retained on back side shell 110. In some embodiments, fasteners 182 and 184 are screws, studs, or snaps. In some embodiments, fasteners 182 and 184 engage with threads on handle 170 and/or on back side shell 110. In some embodiments, there can be only one or no fasteners. In some embodiments, there can be more than two fasteners, e.g., 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 fasteners. Sealant can be provided over portions of the assembly to ensure that they are not damaged by, e.g. exposure to the elements or spills. Sealant can be provided over exposed seams or openings to waterproof the luggage and protect the contents inside.

FIG. 9 depicts back side shell 110 without reinforcement element 180 or associated hardware depicted. Handle opening 115 is visible along the bottom surface of back side shell 110. Handle opening 115 can permit portions of handle 170 to extend through and inside the interior of back side shell 110. Handle opening 115 can include divots that can permit fasteners 182 and 184 to engage with handle 170 when it is installed. In some embodiments, handle opening 115 can be configured to permit fasteners, e.g., fasteners 182 and 184, to engage directly with back side shell 110, e.g., by providing threading or press-fit surfaces associated with handle opening 115. Handle opening 115 can be sized to match the dimensions of handle 170, such that handle 170 fills the opening and there is no extraneous opening that would permit outside contaminants to enter within back side shell 110. Sealant can be provided around and over the junction between handle 170 and handle opening 115.

In some embodiments, not shown, handle 170 can be implemented without handle opening 115. A depression or indent can be provided in back side shell 110, into which handle 170 can be inserted, such that all or a portion of handle 170 can be disposed beneath the outer surface of the luggage shell. In that manner, the handle assembly can be provided without creating an opening in the luggage shell. In some embodiments, the handle can be integrally formed with the luggage shell, without the need for a separate component.

FIG. 10 depicts a partial exploded interior perspective view showing back side shell 110, fasteners 182 and 184, reinforcement element 180, handle 170, handle opening 115, and wheels 150B and 150D. In the exploded view of FIG. 10, reinforcement element 180 is depicted as elevated from its installed position against the interior bottom of back side shell 110, revealing wheel assembly wells 112D and 112B, which can be mirrors of one another on opposite sides of back side shell 110. In some embodiments, reinforcement element 180 extends across the interior bottom of back side shell 110 and over wheel assembly wells 112D and 112B, as shown. In some embodiments, back side shell 110 can include holes or openings in place of wheel assembly wells 112D and 112B. Wheel assemblies 150D and 150B can engage directly with reinforcement element 180 to attach to article of luggage 100.

In some embodiments, reinforcement element 180 can extend across the bottom of back side shell 110 but not over wheel assembly wells 112D and 112B, or over any other wheel assembly that may be implemented with the article of luggage. FIG. 10 also depicts the manner in which fasteners 182 and 184 pass through and/or interact with reinforcement element 180 and handle opening 115 to engage with handle 170.

FIG. 11 depicts a partial exploded interior perspective view showing front side shell 120 and base reinforcement 185. Wheel assembly wells 112A and 112C are also visible because base reinforcement 185 is depicted as elevated off of the base of front side shell 120. In the illustrated embodiment, base reinforcement 185 has substantially similar design and dimensions as reinforcement element 180. In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 11, there is no handle associated front side shell 120, so there is no need for a handle opening through front side shell 120. Base reinforcement 185 can be attached to the bottom interior of front side shell 120 by means of adhesive, snap fit, screws, or other fasteners, as there is no need for fasteners to engage with a handle. In some embodiments, fasteners can be used to secure base reinforcement 185 to the bottom interior of left side shell 120 by engaging with both base reinforcement 185 and front side shell 120. In some embodiments, either reinforcement element 180 or base reinforcement 185 can be attached to article of luggage 100 by fasteners passing through holes in the base reinforcement and engaging with wheel assemblies provided on the exterior of the article of luggage, in effect sandwiching the luggage shell between the base reinforcement and the wheel assembly or assemblies. One of ordinary skill will understand that other or additional features or attributes applicable to reinforcement element 180 described herein throughout are equally applicable to base reinforcement 185.

FIGS. 12 and 13 depict exploded perspective views of reinforcement element 180, handle 170, and wheel assemblies 150B and 150D, without showing back side shell 110 disposed between reinforcement element 180 and handle 170, wheel assembly 150B, and wheel assembly 150D. In some embodiments, wheel assemblies 150B and 150D can be fastened to article of luggage 100 by one or more fasteners that engage each individual wheel assemblies 150B or 150D and reinforcement element 180, passing through back side shell 110. In some embodiments, fastening means for wheel assemblies 150B and/or 150D can engage with back side shell 110. Wheel assemblies 150A and 150C can likewise be attached by fasteners that engage with base reinforcement 185, and/or with front side shell 120. In some embodiments, wheel assemblies can be affixed to article of luggage 100 by other suitable means, including an adhesive, fasteners that engage with the side shells of the luggage, or the like. In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners affixing each individual wheel to the article of luggage can engage with both the base reinforcement and the side shell of the article of luggage.

FIGS. 14 through 20 depict various perspective and elevation views of reinforcement element 180. As illustrated, reinforcement element 180 can include a plurality of ribs disposed on a top surface of reinforcement element 180. In some embodiments, all of the plurality of ribs can be integrally formed with reinforcement element 180. In some embodiments, one or more regions of ribs can be integrally formed with reinforcement element 180, while one or more second regions of ribs can be attached to reinforcement element 180. In some embodiments, a top and/or bottom surface of reinforcement element 180 can be covered with a smooth layer of material, which can prevent objects from falling within or becoming lodged in openings formed by the plurality of ribs. In some embodiments, voids can be formed in the spaces between the plurality of ribs, such that reinforcement element 180 does not include material in the voids, which can reduce weight and material requirements for reinforcement element 180.

Ribs can be disposed in a variety of configurations along the top surface of reinforcement element 180. FIGS. 14 through 20 disclose one such configuration. Reinforcement element 180 can include multiple regions of ribs, each of which can have a different configuration. As illustrated, rib region 1450 includes an x-lattice pattern of ribs extending proximate or adjacent to the front side or edge of reinforcement element 180. Rib region 1450 includes a quadrilinear lattice pattern of ribs disposed adjacent rib region 1450 and extending rearward proximate the back side of reinforcement element 180. In some embodiments, ribs can have a nominal thickness of about 2 mm-6 mm, or about 3 mm-5 mm, or about 3.5 mm-4.5 mm. In some embodiments, ribs can have a thickness of about 5 mm. In some embodiments, the ribs of reinforcement element 180 can be disposed in other than a lattice pattern. In some embodiments, ribs can extend across the length of reinforcement element 180 substantially parallel to one another, without incorporating crossing ribs, e.g. incorporating 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more ridges that extend along substantially all or a portion of the base reinforcement, e.g., as depicted in FIG. 14A. In some embodiments, ribs can be close together and/or voids between the ribs can be smaller, which can increase reinforcement and/or rigidity of reinforcement element 180, but can increase weight and/or material requirements of reinforcement element 180. In some embodiments, ribs can be further away and/or voids between the ribs can be larger, which can decrease weight and/or material requirements of reinforcement element 180, but can decrease reinforcement and/or rigidity of reinforcement element 180.

Reinforcement element 180 includes one or more fastener holes 1491B, 1492B, 1493B, and 1494B, which are capable of receiving and/or engaging with fasteners from a wheel assembly, e.g., wheel assembly 150B, to secure the wheel assembly to an article of luggage. and Likewise, fastener holes 1491D, 1492D, 1493D, and 1494D can be used to secure a second wheel assembly, e.g., wheel assembly 150D, to article of luggage 100 by receiving and/or engaging with fasteners. In some embodiments, there can be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or more fastener holes associated with each wheel assembly.

Reinforcement element 180 can include cavity 1420, which is capable of receiving a handle, e.g., handle 170. In some embodiments, a bottom interior surface of cavity 1420 can be recessed from a bottom surface of reinforcement element 180 to permit sufficient depth for handle 170 to be installed, e.g., for at least a portion of handle 170 to extend through back side shell 110 and into reinforcement element 180. In some embodiments, the bottom interior surface of cavity 1420 can be recessed from the bottom surface of reinforcement element 180 the same height as wall 2120 of handle 170. One of ordinary skill would understand that any features described or depicted herein with respect to a base reinforcement for one side of an article of luggage, e.g., reinforcement element 180, are equally applicable to a base reinforcement for the opposite side of an article of luggage, e.g., base reinforcement 185 or reinforcement element 180A, or vice versa, and that two base reinforcements can be used in the same article of luggage.

In some embodiments, reinforcements elements can be installed in the bottom of each of the two shells that make up an article of luggage, e.g., in the bottom of back side shell 110 and in the bottom of front side shell 120. The base reinforcements that are used in either or both shells can be substantially the same dimensions and design as one another. In other words, reinforcement element 180 would be a suitable reinforcement element for either or both of back side shell 110 and front side shell 120, even though a handle, e.g., handle 170, might only be installed on one side. In some embodiments, reinforcement elements can be deployed on both sides of a shell without being deployed in conjunction with a handle. In some embodiments, a reinforcement element need not be capable of receiving a handle. In those embodiments, the reinforcement element can exclude cavity 1420. In some embodiments, a rib region, e.g., an x-lattice pattern rib region, quadrilinear lattice pattern rib region, or the like, can extend across the portion of the base reinforcement where cavity 1420 is depicted in the illustrated embodiment. Ribs within the rib pattern can also be curved, e.g., to follow a curved profile of the luggage housing or to provide additional support along a given area of the base reinforcement or reinforcement element. In some embodiments, both curved ribs and straight ribs can be combined into a pattern.

In some embodiments, a reinforcement element deployed in back side shell 110 can have a different pattern of ribs than a reinforcement element deployed in front side shell 120, or elsewhere within article of luggage 100. For example, a reinforcement element deployed in conjunction with a handle may require closer ribs and/or smaller voids because of the force that can be exerted when a user grabs and pulls on the handle. In contrast, in regions where a reinforcement element is deployed without a handle element, ribs can be further apart and/or voids can be larger because pulling forces will not likely be imparted on that area of the luggage shell due to the lack of handle.

In some embodiments, a reinforcement element can be deployed on an interior surface of the luggage other than the bottom surface of a luggage shell, e.g., on any of the walls or of the back interior surface of a luggage shell. In this manner, reinforcement properties of a reinforcement element can be applied to other sides of a luggage shell. Optionally, handles in the manner of handle 170 can be deployed on other surfaces of a luggage shell other than the bottom surface, in conjunction with or without a reinforcement element-like structure.

FIG. 14A depicts reinforcement element 180A. Reinforcement element 180A can be attached to and sit along the base of a front and/or rear luggage shell, which can be either a hard- or soft-side luggage shell, but can extend only along the bottom or base of the shell without extending over the shell's wheel wells. Reinforcement element 180A can be formed as an elongated rib pattern 1460A that extends along the base of the luggage shell and can include indented portions at its ends that allow it to be disposed adjacent or in contact with the edges of the luggage shell's wheel wells, but without extending over the top of the wheel wells. Limiting the base reinforcement to extend along the base of the hard- or soft-side luggage shell can save on weight and material cost. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that a base reinforcement extending only along the bottom or base of a luggage shell but not over the wheel wells can take on any shape or configuration described herein, e.g., lattice, honeycomb, elongated ribs, etc.

FIGS. 21 through 27 depict various perspective and elevation views of handle 170. Handle 170 can include fastener holes 2102 and 2014 that can receive two fasteners, e.g., 182 and 184, to secure handle 170 to article of luggage 100. In some embodiments, handle 170 can be affixed to an article of luggage with the use of one or no fasteners. In some embodiments, handle 170 can be affixed to an article of luggage with the use of multiple fasteners, e.g., 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 fasteners. FIGS. 21 through 27 depict an embodiment having a substantially rectangular shape. In some embodiments, the handle can have an oval or rounded shape.

In some embodiments, handle 170 can be implemented along with a reinforcement element, such as any of the reinforcement elements or base reinforcement depicted and/or described herein. In some embodiments, handle 170 can be implemented on its own, i.e. without the use of reinforcement element 180. Handle 170 can engage directly with the luggage shell via adhesive, snap-fit, snaps, screws, or other suitable fasteners. In some embodiments, reinforcement element 180 can be used without any handle.

Handle 170 includes inside surface 2110 that can be flush against the exterior surface of an article of luggage, e.g., article of luggage 100, when handle 170 is installed in an article of luggage. Handle 170 includes handle wall 2120, which can be configured to mate with a hole or receptacle in an article of luggage, e.g., handle opening 115. In some embodiments, the width of handle 170 can be between 2 to 7 inches, between 3 to 6 inches, between 3.5 to 5.5 inches, or between 4 to 5 inches. In some embodiments, when handle 170 is installed within an article of luggage, all or substantially all of wall 2120 is disposed on the interior of the article of luggage, with surface 2110 flush against the exterior surface of the article of luggage. In this manner, the profile of handle 170 that extends beyond the exterior surface of an article of luggage, e.g., article of luggage 100, can be limited to height 2130, which is the thickness of the handle from inside surface 2110 to outside surface 2115. In some embodiments, height 2130 can be between 0.5 to 4 inches, between 1 to 3 inches, or between 1.5 to 2.5 inches.

Handle 170 can also include grip 2150. Grip 2150 extends from wall 2120 toward the interior opening of handle 170. A user's fingers can enter into handle 170 and grasp grip 2150, which provides a surface on which the user can apply force to pull a bag when it is stored in, e.g., an overhead luggage compartment of an airplane, the trunk of a car, or the like. In some embodiments, portions of wall 2120 can be angled, to promote a user's hand and/or fingers sliding into handle 170 to grasp grip 2150 and pull an article of luggage from where it is being stored by using handle 170. In some embodiments, grip 2150 can be excluded. In some embodiments, the functionality of grip 2150 can be provided by shaping the luggage shell and/or cavity 1420 to provide portions onto which a user's fingers can grasp to facilitate manipulation of the article of luggage.

FIGS. 28 and 29 depict a base reinforcement according to an embodiment of the invention. The reinforcement pattern of base reinforcement 180B can take on a honeycomb pattern 1460B, as depicted in FIGS. 29 and 30. In some embodiments, honeycomb pattern 1460B can extend along all or substantially all of an inner surface of the base reinforcement. In some embodiments, the honeycomb structure can extend over all or a portion of the wheel wells formed in the luggage shell. In some embodiments, base reinforcement 180B can extend across a bottom interior surface of a luggage shell side without extending over wheel wells provided in the luggage shell side. The size of the honeycomb pattern, as with the size of the other reinforcement structures and patterns discussed herein, can be varied. In some embodiments, smaller honeycomb patterns with larger voids can increase the reinforcement properties of the base reinforcement. In some embodiments, larger honeycomb structures with smaller voids can save on material cost and weight, while still providing reinforcement properties. In some embodiments, voids between the ribs of the honeycomb pattern can be open on both sides, eliminating material in the voids. In some embodiments and as described with respect to other reinforcement elements described and depicted herein, base reinforcement 180B can be deployed on other interior surfaces of an article of luggage, e.g., to provide reinforcement to other sides or the back of a luggage shell side.

One skilled in the art will realize the invention can be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The foregoing embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects illustrative rather than limiting of the invention described herein. It will be appreciated that the illustrated embodiments and those otherwise discussed herein are merely examples of the invention and that other embodiments, incorporating changes thereto, including combinations of the illustrated embodiments, fall within the scope of the invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An article of luggage comprising: a housing portion; a reinforcement element disposed adjacent an interior surface of the housing portion; and a handle partially disposed adjacent an exterior surface of the housing portion; wherein a portion of the handle extends through at least a handle opening provided in the housing portion and into the reinforcement element.
 2. The article of luggage of claim 1 further comprising: one or more wheel wells formed in the housing portion, the wheel wells configured to accommodate one or more wheel assemblies; wherein the reinforcement element extends over at least a portion of an interior surface of the one or more wheel wells.
 3. The article of luggage of claim 1 further comprising: one or more wheel wells formed in the housing portion, the wheel wells configured to accommodate one or more wheel assemblies; wherein edges of the reinforcement element abut at least a portion of an interior surface of the one or more wheel wells.
 4. The article of luggage of claim 1 wherein the reinforcement element includes a plurality of interconnecting ribs.
 5. The article of luggage of claim 4 wherein a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the handle is formed among the plurality of interconnecting ribs.
 6. The article of luggage of claim 1 wherein the reinforcement element includes a first reinforcement region and a second reinforcement region, wherein the first reinforcement region is configured to exhibit increased rigidity compared to the second reinforcement region.
 7. The article of luggage of claim 6 wherein the first reinforcement region is at least partially located adjacent an open edge of the housing portion.
 8. The article of luggage of claim 1 wherein the reinforcement element includes a honeycomb rib pattern.
 9. The article of luggage of claim 1 wherein the handle includes an opening defining a grab region configured to permit a user's fingers to grab and exert a force on the article of luggage.
 10. The article of luggage of claim 9 wherein the handle includes an angled surface.
 11. The article of luggage of claim 9 wherein the reinforcement element defines an interior surface of the grab region.
 12. An article of luggage comprising: a housing portion; and a reinforcement element disposed on an interior bottom surface of the housing portion, wherein the reinforcement element includes at least a first rib and a second rib wherein the first rib and the second rib interconnect.
 13. The article of luggage of claim 12 further comprising: one or more wheel wells formed in the housing portion, the wheel wells configured to accommodate one or more wheel assemblies; wherein the reinforcement element extends over at least a portion of an interior surface of the one or more wheel wells.
 14. The article of luggage of claim 12 further comprising: one or more wheel wells formed in the housing portion, the wheel wells configured to accommodate one or more wheel assemblies; wherein edges of the reinforcement element abut at least a portion of an interior surface of the one or more wheel wells.
 15. The article of luggage of claim 12 wherein the reinforcement element includes a first reinforcement region and a second reinforcement region, wherein the first reinforcement region is configured to exhibit increased rigidity compared to the second reinforcement region.
 16. The article of luggage of claim 15 wherein the first reinforcement region is at least partially located adjacent an open edge of the housing portion.
 17. The article of luggage of claim 12 wherein the first rib and the second rib form a portion of a honeycomb rib pattern.
 18. The article of luggage of claim 12 further comprising: a handle disposed at least partially on an exterior surface of the housing portion, wherein a portion of the handle extends through at least a handle opening provided in the housing portion and into the reinforcement element.
 19. The article of luggage of claim 18 wherein the reinforcement element includes a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the handle.
 20. The article of luggage of claim 18 wherein a grab region is defined by an opening in the handle and the reinforcement element, the grab region configured to permit a user's fingers to grab and exert a force on the article of luggage. 